When Opium Dublin opened it’s doors in September 2013, I had seen some photo’s of it’s Interior on line already & while the Asian food looked yummy {It is!}, a large mural on one of their walls really struck me as interesting.
I had already been introduced to the work of Russian Artist, Vladimir Tretchikoff and, with this mentioned mural in Opium, was excited that this would be an opportunity to see some of his work up close.
I consider his work quite kitsch but apparently he really didn’t like that description. But I like Kitsch so I don’t see it as the insult that he obviously did. I love Art. I wouldn’t be able to live without it, quite frankly, and it really interests me how subjective it is. It’s a feeling. A moment. What it says to you. How it makes you feel. So, without further ado, I’ll let the ‘Lady from Orient’ speak for herself

I find the colours rich & Beautiful. And she’s more than just a little mysterious, eh?

Here are a few more examples of his famous work

‘Miss Wong’

‘The Chinese Lady/Green Lady’ {…She has a few titles! }

I read a wonderful article on line also about the reuniting of the original model with the above painting so I’d love to share this image with you

Photo Credit: http://www.bbc.co.uk
How striking was she? Monika Pon-su-san was given a print but the original painting was sold for a considerable amount, not so long ago.

For some, these are iconic and familiar images but I’m hoping that I may have introduced some of you to Tretchikoff? And would love to hear if this is your kind of Art or not. I’m thinking these paintings are like Marmite: you will either love ’em or hate ’em!

I finally got a chance to meet the Lady from Orient yesterday and she didn’t dissapoint

Thanks to Gareth at Opium for allowing me to take the photo & so sweetly inviting me to see the other images in their garden area. Unfortunately, I didn’t have my DSLR with me & my phone couldn’t handle the dark, but if you do pop in – make sure you check out this space also. They have continued the oriental theme there & the pendant lights at the bar were a mix of this & vintage

4 thoughts on “Lady from Orient & Tretchikoff…”

I had not heard of the artist or was familiar with his work so thanks for the introduction. While I like the Lady from the Orient (the greens are quite striking) and the original model back with the original painting is interesting to see, I must admit I wouldn’t be a huge fan of these kinds of works. They do however suit the environment in which they are set adding a beautiful ambiance and feel to the place. I look forward to checking it out. Have a wonderful Sunday evening too.

Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, Victoria! Really appreciate you joining the conversation.
So delighted to introduce you to Tretchikoff and his ladies. He’s not for everyone so it’s kinda cool that you seem to like him + yeah, I think he works best in certain spaces, alright: Mid Century Modern being the most obvious.
Think you’d like Opium, hun. Let’s add it to our list of spots to meet xx

Great piece! I’ve not seen Tretchikoff work before so thanks. I really like the ‘Lady from the Orient, such a striking image. For some reason I’m not so keen on the ‘Miss Wong’ or ‘The Chinese Lady’ although it is so interesting to see the original model.
I would never think of using this type of artwork in my home for example but in my make believe home, with high ceilings and big spaces I think this would look fabulous! xo

Yay, Jo! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment & delighted you like this mysterious lady as much as me. I’ve seen her face on pretty much everything at this stage, so she’ll definitely end up gracing our home in some shape or form!

Climbing the highest points in the 32 counties of Ireland, each with a different friend, to explore the idea of friendship in a digital age. This blog is a tease. For the full reveal, you'll have to read the book, when it comes out.